​Perception is reality. It doesn't matter what we are doing or what we are facing, the way we are thinking is what establishes our world.

​I bit my lip as I wrote those words above. I believe every syllable and they give me hope. But they also confirm that I have a lot of work to do on my heart.

As I read through the book of Psalms I noted that it burst with words of hope and joy. The authors, or Psalmists, do not deny their times of pain and trial, but their faith defines their life as blessed by their God. Blessed. Not cursed or too difficult or unfair. Blessed.

​I have a new challenge for myself this week. For seven days (today through Sunday) I am going to concentrate on changing my focus. Because if I can have faith that God's will and plans for me are full of good and love, then I have no reason for fear, for worry, for frustration, for depression, or for defeat.If I believe that every moment is filled with the powerful presence of my God then my view will be pleasing and joyful.

I want a world of joy. Don't we all?

​I want a world where I am excited about the mundane. I want a world where the challenges are accepted with faith and not fear. I want a world in which I smile at my troubles knowing that God has never left my side.

​I can do this. With God I can change my world.

​Life doesn't get easier. Part of me has been waiting for a vacation from the difficulties and fretting that relief never arrives. As I wait I become a victim to the struggle. And yet, victory lies a single thought away.

​Last week Micaela saw four different doctors. I was constantly tossed out of my routine and comfort zone. I was angry and exhausted. I clung to the idea that somewhere, at some point, there will be relief and rest, but in the meantime I grew tired of my world. That is normal, we are human after all. But why continue like this if the one thing I have true control of is my thoughts and my thoughts are controlling my world?

​I have a feeling it is going to be a beautiful week. Let the change begin.

Lord, you alone are my portion and my cup; you make my lot secure.The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance.I will praise the Lord, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me.I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.​Psalm 16:5-8

I am praying for you, too, Sharon! Travel safely. We sure have been missing you and Wayne.

Reply

Robin

8/9/2016 07:02:38 am

"Victory is a single thought away." I LOVE this! He has already made us overcomers of this world, why shouldn't we be living every moment with joy! Praying (for myself too!!) for a strong and renewed mind!

Reply

Lora Armendariz

8/9/2016 02:40:38 pm

Thank you, Robin!

Reply

Marlene

8/9/2016 02:20:24 pm

This is wonderful . . .we all need to hear this. I, also, need to enjoy the mundane, foe very different reasons :) God truly is blessing us, all the time, we just need to open our eyes to the beauty around us.

Reply

Lora Armendariz

8/9/2016 02:39:19 pm

Thank you, Marlene. Have a beautiful and blessed week!

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"...and God was already there with me."

The​Beautiful Day Project

My name is Lora and a few years ago I tumbled into fear, believing that my world would never emerge from the nightmare of uncertainty. However, when I looked up I found beauty in all the little things and God was already there with me​. The joy of having a beautiful day is not in luck, but in resting in my walk with Him.